MHA @ GW Student Spotlight: Brandon Brogan -

MHA @ GW Student Spotlight: Brandon Brogan

April 14, 2015 Emily Newhook

position: Specialist monitoring health system, Line medical Service, Wilkes-Barre VA medical Center

as an former sailor, Brandon Brogan is dedicated to make significant changes in the administration of former health Affairs. He decided to earn HA to acquire the skills and knowledge needed to become an effective leader in the field. Brandon is no stranger to higher education, however. He already holds a Master of Science in Accounting and a Master of Quality Management in science, but his educational experience at MHA @ GW really fate. When describing his classes and teachers, Brandon uses adjectives like "amazing", "reenergizing" and "phenomenal". Learn why Brandon is so passionate about his educational experience by studying today's projectors.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I served in the Marine Corps from 01 to 08 as I was finishing my bachelor's degree, I took a position at the University of Michigan Health System as a program manager for funded projects grants to use peer intervention as a method of increasing the use of resources among returning veterans of operation Iraqi Freedom and operation Enduring Freedom.

Why and when did you decide to earn an MHA degree?

After the transition to a more traditional role of health care administration with the Veterans Health Administration, I understood that there was still so much I had to learn. I wanted to go back to school for a MHA, but being located in rural West Virginia left my somewhat limited options.

Why did you choose the MHA @ GW program?

When I accepted a promotion and moved to Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, I decided to take a serious look at some of the MHA program in the region. I had been familiar with MHA @ GW for some time, and after researching and comparing it to other programs, I felt it was best for me.

What excites you most about the program?

the wealth of knowledge and experience that teachers and instructors bring to the program. I am constantly in awe of the amount of experience and knowledge of faculty to share with us in the real world.

Do you have a favorite module and teacher?

The first module, management and strategy, which was taught by Professor Hanna, was phenomenal. His knowledge of the industry and the challenges it faces were amazing. For the first time in my academic career, I'm a little sad that the course was completed.

What was your favorite part of the experience MHA @ GW?

The immersion experiences, by far. I did not know what to expect when I drove for the first, but on return travel home, I could not wait to return. Having such an impressive group of faculty, alumni and fellow students on hand to discuss a common passion was invigorating. Every time I leave a dip, I feel revitalized to return to my job and try to incorporate some of the skills and tools I learned in immersion.

Tell us about your experience during the last immersion.

The second immersion experience was truly phenomenal. Having the opportunity to sit with the CEO and COO of the George Washington University Hospital and ask them to answer our questions was incredible. Speakers old panels, teachers and guests were all really motivating as well. I particularly enjoyed the discussion of Dr. Pierre Vigilance on public health.

What do you hope to accomplish on graduation?

My hope is to continue to advance my career with the Veterans Health Administration. I think now more than ever, the VA needs educated and dedicated leaders who have the knowledge and skills to effect meaningful change.